4/5
Epic
I loved it ! , i was hooked from start to finish , i loved the characters and the plot , the pace and spice, il be looking up more books to read by Sam
Leah Masters knew she probably should be dead. When she put Cain Knox’s son in the hospital, her days were numbered. Instead, Cain gave her a choice, she either dies or comes to work for him. There was a catch though, he gets to control every aspect of her life. She’d rather live than die, so she reluctantly agreed.
Cain had no intention of killing the fiery blonde that put his son in his place. His kid had been giving him a headache for some time, as the boy didn’t like the word no. He tried to attack Leah and suffered the consequences.
She tried to ignore the older man. Cain was a force to be reckoned with. He didn’t take any crap from anyone, and she respected him for it. Soon business turns into pleasure. Leah never expected him to freak out when discovering she was a virgin, but Cain told her he was certainly going to be her last.
But things are complicated because Cain still had a son, and that son hated her for what she had done. He is going to have to make a choice—the love of his life, or his only son. Who will he choose?
Excerpt:
Cain offered a smile. So far, he hadn’t made any such donation, as he knew the foster homes rarely got it. There was always some form of red tape that kept a small fortune held back.
“Lovely event,” Cain said.
“And the dancing is exquisite. Please share a dance with me.” She held out her hand, and he turned toward Leah, who simply took his glass from him.
“Who I am to come between a dancing couple?” Leah said.
“Two minutes,” he said.
At first, she raised her brows as if she didn’t have a clue what he was talking about, but then she gave him that eye wink which told him she did know what he wanted. One day, he was going to put her over his knee and spank that ass. She was due one with her sassy tone.
He took Constance’s hand and led her onto the dance floor. He made sure to turn her so that he saw Leah. His own date had already put down their champagne glasses on a passing waiter’s tray.
She stood, arms at her sides, watching him. Cain noticed a few men had already seen she was alone. He waited to see if anyone would dare move in.
There was a single man, who also happened to be part of old money as well. Only, Drake Sherwood knew what he was doing with his inheritance and had learned to invest it. There were rumors circulating about some of his business allies. Rumors of being close to the Italian mafia, but again, there was no evidence to back any of it up. Just rumors.
Leah turned toward Drake, and he saw her stay tense. She nodded, offered that fake smile he knew she was capable of. There was even a chuckle, but he saw it didn’t reach her stomach. Everything was fake. She played her part to perfection.
Drake offered her a chance to dance. She declined and came toward him. She was perfect with her timing as Constance had started to talk about them spending more time together.
“I think I would like to cut in,” Leah said, coming in close. She put a hand on Constance’s shoulder. “I think it is only fair that I get a chance to dance with my date.”
Cain nodded at Constance.
“Date?”
“Ah, yes, Constance, this is Leah Masters, my date. She was rather interested in this charity event as I’m not sure you’re aware. Leah, herself, is a foster child.”
“It’s always nice to know there are people willing to give to those, but it is so strange, as all my years in the system, we never heard of a charitable donation.”
Constance turned pale but then chuckled and waved in a direction. “Please forgive me. I’d love to stay and chat, but I must go and speak with someone.”
Leah turned into his arms. “Are you done now?”
“I’m curious what Drake wanted,” he said.
She rolled her eyes. “He wanted to know what a beautiful woman was doing alone at such a drab party. He also offered to take me for a dance. Do these pickup lines work?”
“You were not impressed?”
“What was there to be impressed about?” She wrinkled her nose. “I don’t know why you come to these things. I’m pretty sure everyone is stabbing each other in the back and it sounds like it is a huge competition to find the biggest dick.”
Cain smiled and then leaned in close. “I’ll give you a hint, it’s mine.”
He felt her body shudder and now he really did have a reason to smile. He had gotten the sense over the past few weeks that she did like him. Where his hard cock couldn’t hide his attraction to her. Only men who knew the female body would be able to detect her feelings for him. The flush to the chest. The way her cheeks went a pretty shade of pink. There were also times she nibbled at her bottom lip. All indications of what she felt for him. The hardness of her nipples, certainly when they were in a heated room.
Staring into her green eyes, he ran a hand up her back and then took a leap. He knew she was young enough to be his daughter but he didn’t give a shit. Leah was nothing like any of the other women he’d come to know. The women in his circle were all vipers. They were intent on hunting, on manipulating. Leah was none of those things.
She was a woman who could fight for herself. Strong and independent. Other than this Ben, who was a fighter, she had no one. He’d done some research on Ben. The man had been a good guy, a true fighter, but he refused to kill. He’d beat his enemies to within an inch of their lives, but he wouldn’t make the final strike. What had killed him had simply been being in the wrong place at the wrong time. That was all.
Taking possession of her lips, he kissed her, soft at first. That initial touch set his blood aflame, and he felt a hunger for her. His cock hardened.
Leah ran her hands up his chest, wrapping them around his neck. At first, she didn’t respond, only to then give back more than he could have hoped for.
Breaking from the kiss, he looked into her eyes for several seconds and waited.
“Do you need to stay?” Leah asked.
“No, I’m quite ready to go home.”
“Me too.”
Product Reviews
5/5
An enjoyable standalone read
I enjoyed this book, it was a pretty quick read, a standalone, age gap, innocent vs morally gray crime boss with a bit of a slow burn, but still steamy. I liked the unique way in which Leah comes into and stays in Cain's orbit, and there was definitely an occurance in there that I did not expect.
5/5
Dark and seductively good
A Dark and seductive read. Leah's (FMC) life gets complicated when she takes down crime lord Cain's son - Danny when he tries to force himself on her. Which in turn then led her to work for Cain doing whatever he told her too. That close proximity that they had gave way to a simmering attraction that they both had for each other. My word was the steaminess off of the charts hot! A great read with 2 characters that had me invested in this story from the first chapter.
4/5
Good Read
Leah, a tough and resourceful woman who finds herself working for Cain, a ruthless mafia leader, after a violent rape attempt with his son after which Cain comes to her defense. As they navigate their tense relationship, sparks fly, and deeper emotions emerge, challenging their loyalties and pasts. Will they find a happy ending with such a rough beginning?
5/5
Another great romance book
I always enjoy Sam's books. They have everything. This story is nice, with a gap age romance and some dark issues, but always with a HEA.
5/5
loved
Fool Me by Sam Crescent is a compelling and spicy age-gap romance that seamlessly blends intense chemistry with strong character development
4/5
Mildly Dark Slow Burn
Fool Me Once is a mildly dark slow burn with lots of tension and great supporting characters. Cain is an intense and ruthless man who rules his territory with an iron fist. His obsession with Leah is clear from the outset, as is his inability to recognize his feelings for what they are. Leah is a dynamic woman who has survived so much in her life, willing to sacrifice for her survival. I love how strong and independent she is, alongside her huge heart. Supporting characters Frank and Cameron have a fascinating history, and I liked how the author wove their love story into the plot. I would have loved to see more character development and there are minor plot points that could use some improvement. The overall story is engaging and I love the twisted connection between Leah and Danny—that was great villainy building there.
4/5
Fool Me Once
I enjoyed Cain and Leah’s intriguing story it definitely captured my interest and imagination completely with their intense interactions and simmering energy well matched for a good read
5/5
Daddy issues
Fool Me Once is an entertaining story that mixes age-gap, Mafia, family, explicit violence and touches on attempted sexual assault. The story is about Leah Masters, a young woman who grew up on foster care. She was lucky once to have a man, Ben, who looked out for her like a big brother/father figure. He also taught her how to fight and survive. Unfortunately, as she was working in a bar she caught the eye of a young man, Danny, who did not like to take no for an answer. When he tried to assault her she fought back and ended up putting him in the hospital. Cain Knox is a man who has fought to get to the top of the city, in the Mafia underworld that is. He is smart, does not shy away from inflicting violence and does not do relationships. He also has the unfortunate title of Dad to Danny. When Danny ends up in the hospital and Cain sees the video camera tape of just what happened he is intrigued by the young woman. He offers Leah two choices...come to work for him or die. Of course Leah would rather live even if it comes with some strange stipulations from Cain. Thus starts their story which was a wild ride and a sweet HEA.
5/5
Loved this book!!
I loved this book!!! It was exciting, filled with drama, angst and spice. I couldn’t put this book down until I got to the end. This storyline was original and page-turning. The characters were complex and had an undeniable chemistry. I love a good mafia romance and this book hit all my check marks for what I love in books!!! I enjoy and devour all of Sam Crescents books. They have the right amount of mystery, drama and grovel. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!!!
5/5
so good
Such a good book. Quick and hot. I loved them both. I loved the MMC commitment. I loved how they were together.
4/5
Leah's strong, independent streak
Leah's strong, independent streak comes out to make sure she care herself. When she's attacked by Danny, she puts him in the hospital. Cain, Danny's dad, is also a crime boss. Cain ends up offering Leah a job to work for him, or she dies. Leah is a bada$$. Cain should have put his son in his place a while ago.
5/5
Fool me once
Leah grew up in the foster care system and sometimes on the street when she would run away. And that time she met a man named Ben who taught her how to protect herself. So when she was working at a bar and a guy named Danny tried to assault her she defended herself and put him in the hospital. Cain is Danny's dad and it also the owner of the bar. After seeing the surveillance video he gives her a ultimatum to either work for him or he will end her. He's intrigued by the scrappy beautiful woman. But a time comes when he has to choose between her or his son. In some ways I feel bad for Danny cuz I feel like maybe if he had a loving parent growing up he wouldn't have turned out to be the bad person that he was.
5/5
Cain and Leah
Fool Me Once is a steamy, OTT, opposites-attract, enemies-to-lovers, age-gap, curvy virgin gets her morally gray hunk. Leah is a 25-year-old smart, feisty, and curvy girl. Cain is a hunky, 45 year old crime boss. Leah beat Danny, Cain's son, so bad that he landed in the hospital after attempting to rape her. Cain gave her a choice of death or come work for him. She agrees and essentially becomes his companion. The two fall in love, but neither is trusting, and Danny is a problem. Can these two let love in? I loved this couple. Can would never hurt Leah. He loved how fierce she was and knew his son was a problem. Their chemistry is off the charts hot, and the ending was happy after a lot of drama. I loved it!!.
5/5
Fabulous
I loved reading Leah and Cain’s story in Fool me once by Sam Crescent. When someone attacks Leah she fight back and puts him in the hospital. She soon finds out he is the son of a very powerful and dangerous man. He gives her the option of working for him or die so she goes to work for him. Over time she realizes what kind of man he is. The both soon develop feelings for each other but the problem is his son is still around and hates her for embarrassing him.
5/5
A Rare Gem
Cain is a boss in his city and he stumble upon Leah due to his son messing up in life. Instead of him killing her for putting his crazy son in his place Cain actually hires her to be his stand in woman for work events in his life. Cain is slowly falling for her and now he wants her permanently. Join the story to see how this man keeps his younger woman. Enjoy ?
5/5
Sam Is The Best!!!!
Sam Crescent is one of my favorite authors. Each book never disappoints me... some take me a bit to get into but when I do I am blown away. Each book suspenseful, sexy with the added touch of romantic.
4/5
Foll Me
This is a short story. This is Leah and Cain’s story. Almost raped and putting Cain’s son in the hospital she thought she would be dead. Instead for her life she has to be glued to his side. What will happen? Will he eventually kill her or will more come of the situation?
4/5
Overall pretty good.
This was overall a pretty good book. There was a few times that seemed like it was dragging on, but by the end of it I was glad I read it. I recommend reading this.
5/5
Soo good
Cain Son Is pain in the ... When he Attack Young lady..And She break defend herselfes..je Is curious. He také her with him And Is intruque the more he knows her..
5/5
Awesome Read
I always get happy when Sam Crescent has a new book out. I enjoyed the story of Leah and Cain. Leah knows the ropes, she didn't have it easy, she went from foster homes to the streets where she lived for a while. After a while she meets Cain when she accidentally causes his son to end up in the hospital, and she has to fear for her life because Cain is not easy, she gets a job with him. This is a great story with enough drama, action, danger, betrayal and tension and enough steamy and hot moments. I enjoyed reading their story and because I had trouble putting my book down I finished it in one go ?
4/5
Neither are fools, but worthy advocates.
I like this author. The storylines are interesting and the characters complicated beneath the exterior you are allowed to see. Another man brought down by a strong willed girl. A decision made has its complications and were designed to control. The question is who is actually controlling whom. They each have goals, but the drama in their lives are not actually choreographed and trus personalities begin to emerge.
5/5
Love it
I love reading Sam Crescent books. This one doesnot disappoint. I wish it were longer but that okay. Cain and Leah's story is a page turner, gritty, spicy. Cains son is a handful and a terrible son. Leah stands up to him and is not afraid. Great story to read.
5/5
Fool Me Once
This is Cain and Leah's story and I rather enjoyed it. Cain is sort of the "bad" guy who believes in justice. It starts with Leah, a women with a past in the foster system who doesn't trust easily working at one of his bars that his son Danny runs. Danny however is a self important true bad guy with no moral compass. When he tries to rape Leah as he has others in the past her past self defense training on the streets served her well and she put him in the hospital. Cain is intrigued with her on many levels and as it was his son (who he really doesn't care for because of his lack of morals and any sense of right or wrong) that she hurt, he tells her she can work for him or he will have her killed. He really has no intention of doing this but he is impressed by her and how she stands up to to him. As they get to know each other something grows between them but will it get cut short by their past coming back to haunt them? Check it out to see. You will be glad you did.
5/5
So good
This book was such a great, short read. Leah, the fmc gains the attention if Cain after she defends herself against his son (beats the stuffing outta him). Cain offers her a job and what starts out as employment becomes much more.
4/5
Steamy!
Steamy! Age gap, mafia and all the heat level between two characters that you’ll be cheering for their forever. Leah and Cain world collide when his son tried something with her but she showed him how independent and not afraid she is while kicking bu*t. As she agrees to Cain’s deal, their close proximity heats up until it ends in a steamy moment that doesn’t end how she dream of. Will he be able to prove to her that she’s his? One click to find out in this newest taboo read that doesn’t disappoint.
4/5
Nice read
This was a nice short mafia story. Overall rating is 3.5 stars. The epilogue was my favorite part, loved the HEA.
5/5
Fantastic book!
I am a huge fan of Sam Crescent! This book is an excellent addition to all her other works. Be forewarned, it is violent at times, but this only makes the book more engrossing. Leah has had a difficult life and now must defend herself against a would-be rapist. Unfortunately, the rapist's father, Cain, is a crime boss, so she has to answer to him. The plot of this book includes a few twists that make it even better. I love how Leah and Cain fall in love. It’s unconventional but completely fantastic! Oh, and don't forget that it is super spicy! :)
4/5
Fool Me Once!
This is a sweet and spicy age gap romance about Leah and Cain. Leah has struggled her whole life. She is a product of the system and has ended up being saved by a man who taught her to fight. It came in handy when Danny, does not take "NO" for an answer. Danny ends up in the hospital and Leah ends up being given an ultimatum by his father, Cain. She can either die or go work for Cain. This is such a good story with dark elements, possible triggers, danger, action, suspense, passion, love and much more. I enjoyed every it of this story.
5/5
Wow!
I wasn't sure what to expect from this but I loved it! I loved that the book opens up and instead of rehashing or going through what brought them together you gets quick description about what happened and then it goes back to the present and you can get stuck straight into their story! I loved it and I hung on their every interaction! This book has slight forbidden vibes due to him being the father of the guy she protected herself from but I think that just makes it even more yummy! I loved the tension they had that turns into a bond and how he proves to her that she is his number one... with her also showing that he is the one she wants! This author is always a one click for me and this book wasn't any different... I loved it all... although I'd have loved for the end to maybe be a bit longer as some parts seemed rushed or squashed in but all in all it worked... but I always love the epilogue and this one was no different! More soon please!
4/5
Fool Me Once
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a complimentary copy. Leah is a strong, independent woman who knows how to care for herself. Leah is attacked by Danny, but to his surprise, she ends up putting him in the hospital. Cain is Danny's dad, and he is a crime boss. Cain offers Leah a job to work for him, or she dies. Leah was my favorite character. I did like Cain, but he should have dealt with his son's behavior a long time ago. I did enjoy the building of Cain and Leah's relationship, and I liked how protective he was of her. Will Cain protect Leah from his son, or will he side with his son and take care of Leah?
4/5
What a wild ride!
What a wild ride! I have read other novels by this author and really enjoyed them. This novel did not disappoint. I was excited to jump into this novel, this novel checked so many boxes for me. Once I started reading this novel sucked me in and held on tight. I loved Leah and Cain's story. I loved Leah had fought back when Cain's son tried to attack her. I loved how strong and resilient she was. I loved Leah and Cain's chemistry. I loved watching them both lower their defenses,despite all the outside drama with Cain's son, and fall in love. Once I started reading this novel kept me on the edge of my seat reading what was happening next. I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next. So good!
5/5
the rare gem
After Cain Knox son tried to rape Leah and she put him into hospital, the father offered her to work for him or die. Leah has a strong will to live, also she has had a bad life. She grew up in the foster system and at the streets. There is more between her and Cain, but his son blames her for his father kicking him out. There is no love lost between father and son, but how can he handle him? When after more than six month Cain does not hold back any longer, having tested Leah throighly, he attempts on having sex with her, but reacts poorly, when he comes to know she is/was a virgin. But he knows she is his... I loved this story, just be careful when to start reading because I was not able to put it down. The strong characters, who have multiple layers. The story within from Caine's chef Frank and how Leah helps him find his love, it made me shed some tears in the best way.
4/5
Unexpected
This book does not go the way I thought it would be only in the best ways! I loved how Cain kept Leah close and under watch but not for the reasons you think! And I loved how strong and sharp Lead was. Great story!
4/5
Leah and Cain
Leah and Cain met when his son tries to attack her and she puts him in the hospital. Cain comes to her with a choice, she either dies or comes to work for him. A well written age gap story with a good storyline and a happy ending.
5/5
Falling in love
I'm confident that our MMC will make a great choice! It’s been so sweet watching them fall for each other, even if they don’t quite see it yet. He might come off as grumpy sometimes, but he has such a gentle side when it comes to her. While others might find him a bit intimidating, he truly knows how to care for those he loves.
5/5
Loved it
A wonderful story. Cain and Leah are wonderful characters, with a strong attraction, Loved this story. Amazing read.
4/5
Steamy Romance
Fool Me Once is an engaging and quite compelling book. Like the storyline, the characters are gritty and realistic. There is a steamy romance that was a long time coming, as well as drama, action, a betrayal, tough choices, and more that keep you turning the pages. The only curiosities about the book were the title Danny's ability to knock out a bunch of what I assume to be trained guards. I did not get it. If it is a reference to Cain's son, he did not fool anyone. Regardless, I high recommend the book.
4/5
a great read
I am really enjoying this author at the moment and try to read them each time they come up this was a great read Loved the characters and enjoyed their story Looking forward to more.
4/5
Cain & Leah
This is an entertaining age-gap romance and is Cain and Leah's story. This story is action-packed, has betrayal, suspense, passion and chemistry. Leah is a strong young woman, who speaks up when needed. Leah has lived in foster care and on the streets, until she met a good friend. Leah's friend, taught her how to protect herself. She now works for Cain Knox, after his son Danny attacked her.
5/5
Great Read
She always looked out for herself since she learned at a young age that she was the only one that would. When she put his son in the hospital and he gave her the two options she jumped at the living one. She never thought of future with a husband and kids since she didn't think it was an option. When they finally crossed the line things just got messier. She does what she thinks is right for those she lets get close to her. When she see's Frank happy it makes her happy. He does what he has to do to save her and finally tells her how he really feels. I would love to see what happens next for them and for Frank.
5/5
Age Gap Quick Read
After an attempted attack on her, Leah now lives with Cain. It was Cain's son who tried assaulting Leah, but he ended up in the hospital. Cain enjoys taking care of Leah and seems to realize his feelings towards her first, but it takes Leah a little while longer. I enjoyed the side characters (Frank and Cameron) and how Cain and Leah helped bring them back together. Great read.
5/5
Short sweet and to the point!
I feel like these are my go to for a quick spicy read without the insta-love nonsense that I so dislike. Having the MMC and MFC at least know each other for a little bit makes the read all that much better. There is also always a story in between the sheets even if it's an evil family or in this case a spoiled adult son. Leah and Cain were made for each other and the circumstances behind their meeting only added to the story. I would have loved to read Frank and Cameron's story but it was told alongside this read. Good read witht the added bonus of a level 7 spice factor. Definitely recommend!
5/5
a strong FMC, a lousy son and lots of love
First of all I absolutely love a strong, tough and self reliant FMC and that what we get in Leah. And that shows, when she lets Danny Knox know, what he gets for trying to corner her. Now she has to work for Cain Knox, his father. The attraction and chemistry is growing between these two. They are a super interesting couple, they are equal in all parts, despise the differences in power. She is not afraid to use her voice, not with him, not with anyone and that is something I soo enjoy in characters. It makes the story interesting, exciting and fun.
5/5
Fool me Once
A sassy, spirited FMC in an enemies to lovers romance with intense chemistry. The story was great and I liked that the relationship took time to develop - that it was not an insta-romance.
4/5
His
All working in one of his bars, she beats up his son for assaulting her not realizing who he was. Coming from foster care she has been scrapping and protecting herself her whole life. He is a dangerous man, but he gave her a choice. She can come work for him or be killed. Now she finds herself living in his house, wearing the clothes he picks out. She is an enigma to him at first he wasn’t sure if he could trust her but now after keeping her all this time he realized that’s all he wants to do.. he is a hot over-the-top possessive, older, crime boss. She is unlike anyone else he has ever known, and she makes him want things he never thought he would. First, he kept her close just to watch her but now it’s because he doesn’t want her anywhere else. This is a short story format, so you do not expect to get overly detailed plot lines or complex character development. However, for a short story of the author, does you solid here with some really good character development you have a strong sense of who each of them are. You quickly feel invested in their relationship and then finding a happily ever after. The story is well written and is unique in the genre.
5/5
Loved it!!
This book was incredible. I absolutely LOVED it! Leah and Cain were amazing characters. I absolutely recommend this book.
5/5
definite must read
This author is wonderful. She can write great book about anything and this one had a bit of bully a bit of age gap and a whole lot of BBW and I couldn't stop reading it!!! This is simply wonderful!!
5/5
Leah and Cain
Sam Crescent is a one-click author for me (I see, I buy) and this book didn't break my streak. Crescent does exceptionally well with independent FMCs and Leah's no exception. Leah takes care of herself and has to when Cain's son doesn't understand the word no. She knows doing so is a one-way ticket to the end for her and is surprised when Cain asks her to be an apprentice of sorts. She accompanies him as he does business and they both fight the growing temptation of their attraction to each other. I enjoyed watching two stubborn, independent people find love - for themselves and for a close friend. I tried to reconcile Cain's treatment of his "new to him" son - you don't care for him but allow him to harm others. He gave his son too much leeway and it came back to bite him. I read this in one sitting and hope you will too.
5/5
charming
i really admired female lead on this book. she was strong and independent she know her. she never assume thing , she is not entitled as many 20 something girls. she i aware of herself her strength and weakness. i really liked her she was matured. male lead is charming too and matured and reasonable. made one mistake and he own his mistake and do better. good job
5/5
Leah and Cain
Cain Knox has forced Leah Masters to live with him and work for him after his son, Danny, attempted to assault her. Determined not to be a victim, Leah fought back, sending Danny to the hospital. Cain, tired of his son's reckless behavior, is unwilling to harm Leah. Instead, he has her shadow him, allowing her to see him at his best and his worst. To his surprise, Leah doesn't flinch when he shows his violent side and doesn't judge him for his actions. Intrigued by her strength and resilience, Cain becomes determined to protect her from his son. As they live together, their bond deepens, growing from friendship into something more. Unfortunately, Danny’s threats against Leah continue, forcing Cain to face a difficult decision: who will he ultimately choose to protect? This story offers a unique twist, and I found it to be an engaging read, different from what Sam usually writes, but well worth the time.
4/5
Fool Me Once
Sometimes the choices you make end in disaster. And sometimes they do not. But you never know the results until the end. For Leah, the attraction she had to the man who gave her a choice of life or death, was startling and challenging. But she rose to the difficulty and created a "win" she could live with.
5/5
Rocky Start
Leah was in a world she never imagined to enter all because she put her new boss’ son in the hospital. Cain had control over Leah and his feelings for her grew the more he learned about her. She fit in his world but was like no other. Their feelings grew into something precious and even with the danger surrounding them they managed a sweet HEA
4/5
Cain and Leah
Fool Me Once is the story between mob boss, Cain, and waitress, Leah. They meet after Leah puts Cain's son in the hospital after an attempted sexual assault. She expected to be killed, but was "employed" instead. There is a twenty year age difference between them. I loved Leah's character. I had a bit of a hard time with Cain's. I don't know what I think about a character that had no feelings for his kid. Granted he provided materially, but gave no fatherly guidance. And The kid lived with him. It wasn't like he lived in another state. He didn't want a kid, but he could have taken precautions to prevent pregnancy. Precautions were not taken years later with Leah before they were on the same page as a couple as well. It could have been history just repeating itself. I get that his son was irredeemable. I just think that perhaps he might have been a decent man if his father had loved him and taught him the values he believed in. In other words, SA isn't ok. Other than this sticking point with me, I enjoyed the story.
4/5
Great short story
This was a shorter story and I enjoyed it. Leah doesn't take cr@p off anyone so when she knocks out a guy who was bothering her, his dad comes to find her. Yes, it's an older man, younger woman. Cain takes one look at her and wants her so he tells her she has to marry him since she went after his son. Oh, his son is a jerk and deserves everything he gets. The story is engaging and hot! You don't want to miss this one if you like Sam Crescent's stories!
5/5
Defending her
Leah knew how to take care of herself. She certain made Danny Knox think twice. Now she is working for Cain Knox, his father. He wants her by his side to keep an eye on her. She would never tell anyone about what he has done. But the longer she is with Cain, the more she is drawn to him. Cain likes the little spitfire. She put his son in his place. He knows that Danny is worthless. Having Leah with him just makes things interesting for him. But she is making him feel things he hasn’t. I love that Leah beat the crap out of Danny. You see, a woman can defend herself. She made him sorry. But let’s face it, that boy was just that, a spoiled boy that needed to be handled. I understand Cain wanting to protect him but he even knew that that boy was worthless. Leah showed him what love was. I loved that she made friends with his staff and he didn’t even notice. She is one smart cookie.
5/5
Leah and Cain.
Leah and Caín story was a great read. This two definitely have the chemistry from the very beginning even though they started on a different level they found happiness in one another.
5/5
Wow
Leah met Cain when his son attacked her. Rather than punish Leah for defending herself, Cain forces her to move in with him. I really enjoyed this story and loved these two together.
5/5
Engaging, gritty and hot
This was an engaging and page turning read that takes a gritty storyline and brings it to life beautifully. Cain ties Leah to his side after she beats up his son when he tries to force her into 'relations' with him. She's had a tough past and has no problem telling Cain the truth on all things without fear, something he's not used to. As you may imagine, feelings bloom but his son is still trying to make trouble for her... I really enjoyed how this one had me glued to my reader to see how everything would unfold. Expect a wild reading ride with twists, chemistry, action and steam as Cain and Leah work their way to a fab HEA. Good fun!
5/5
Spicy age gap
Fool Me by Sam Crescent is a compelling and spicy age-gap romance that seamlessly blends intense chemistry with strong character development. The story revolves around Leah, a woman who is blackmailed into working for Cain after defending herself from his son, Danny, who attacks her. What follows is a fast-paced journey of attraction, growth, and self-discovery. Leah stands out as a strong, independent heroine. She’s no damsel in distress, and this was one of the most refreshing aspects of the book. Her resilience and ability to hold her ground in tough situations really set the tone for the narrative, making her an empowering protagonist. Cain, a dominant and complex figure, finds himself drawn to Leah in a way he hadn't expected. Their dynamic is intriguing, as Cain evolves not only in his appreciation for Leah’s strength but also in his own character growth. The chemistry between Cain and Leah is undeniably intense, and their interactions are both spicy and emotionally charged. As they work together, their bond deepens, allowing both characters to grow—Cain learns to open up and embrace vulnerability, while Leah’s sense of empowerment is bolstered by her journey with him. Overall, Fool Me is a quick-paced, engaging read with a solid mix of romance, tension, and character development. The chemistry is sizzling, the plot intriguing, and the heroine a standout. Fans of spicy age-gap romances with strong heroines will definitely enjoy this one.
5/5
Cain and Leah
Leah thought when she beat Cain Knox's son, that would be the end of her life. He gave her two choices, the only option was to go to work for him, as she liked to keep breathing. Cain never had any of intention of hurting her, his deserved what he got. He attacked her, his injuries were the consequences. The pair grow closer but one night he freaks out when he discovers she is a virgin. He has a lot to make up for, as he is not letting her go. When his son causes trouble for Leah, he will have to chose one or the other.
5/5
Fool Me Once
A hot intense read, a cat and mouse game between both Cain and Leah is ready to explode when they give into their feeling and start a hot intense steamy relationship. Falling in love had not been in his life plans but when his son gets out of control, he has to make a decision that could change his life forever. A wonderful romantic, sizzling read!
4/5
Cain and Leah
Leah is a product of the system who had to grow up fast. Danny is a spoiled brat who could get away with anything, he thought. He didn't count of Leah fighting back or his father finally seeing with his own eyes. Cain gives Leah a job and slowly they fall in love. Sound corny? In a way. However, the author makes sure the characters are multi layered and you understand why they are who they are. The secondary characters are interesting also. This isn't as dark as her other stories. There are some parts of the arc that would have benefited from that. It was an interesting take to hold off on the dark.
5/5
Great Story
Loved reading Fool Me Once. I found myself glued to this book once I started reading and I was shocked when I came to the last page. Leah and Cain’s story was beautifully done!!
5/5
Fool Me Once by Sam Crescent
Leah grew up in foster homes and having that background made her tough. When Cain's son Danny cornered at work and tried to take advantage of her and she beat him up and good. After Cain finding out what happened between his son and Leah he decided to take some drastic measures with his son and keep Leah tied to him. He threatened her to make her stay with him. She didn't know better but she was the one woman that he couldn't give up. The chemistry between this couple is so much fun to read. Leah never backs down and tells Cain when she feels he is wrong. She is so kind to his staff, and is the least selfish woman he had every met. This book was a lot of fun to read to see where it would take me. This is a definite must read.
5/5
Great book!
I have to say that I love all of Ms Crescent's book, but I think this is now one of my favorites from her! Highly recommend this book!
5/5
Fool
A street wise woman goes to work for the mafia boss after she puts his son in the hospital after he tries to rape her. (There is talk about this attempted rape and mention of other rapes). What follows is a story of their relationship and consequences of actions.
5/5
Great story
Leahs life changed when she was attacked by Danny but she went on the defense and he was the one to end up in the hospital instead! When his father Cain comes along he gives Leah 2 options to die or work for him giving her self and her life over to him. She chooses to work for him but neither could know the spiraling draw to one another would bring and his son certainly isnt happy about her being around. but will Cain have to choose between family or love? Well written fast paced quick, steamy age gap read
4/5
Loved it
I devoured this book. Leah put Cain’s son in his place which she thought would have brought consequences to her but all Cain did was make her follow him around while he conducted his business (which is the polite way of putting it) and when she should have been upset by it, she was intrigued. And Cain…well he was in love. Read this one, you won’t regret it.
5/5
<3
OMG I loved this one so much!!!! I loved how he just had to have her beside him all the time. It was so good! And I loved how he held his son accountable. It was tricky for him of course but in the end he was pretty darn decisive about it. lol I also loved how when he needed to apologize he did it! He knew and he made it right.
